Course Objectives for Social Psychology (PSY 351)

Social Psychology is the study of social interaction and social influence.  As such, it remains one of the most comprehensive and personally relevant areas within the field of psychology.  The topics covered will be representative of the current subject matter within this discipline.  A detailed examination of current research findings and application programs related to the topic under study will be made through text readings, original research articles, class lectures, and films.  Fundamental assumptions and concepts underlying various theories about social phenomenon will be critically assessed on the basis of experimental evidence.  Furthermore, as a general education course, this class attempts to provide opportunities to acquire certain skills which are useful not only in the context of investigating, understanding, and influencing human behavior but which are generalizable to other aspects of life. 

In addition to and expanding upon what is stated above, it is important to note that this course has four key objectives.  The first is to expand your knowledge about social psychology and human behavior.  To accomplish this goal, the course will emphasize (1) acquisition of knowledge that goes beyond mere memorization of facts and moves students to an understanding of and ability to use certain fundamental concepts and principles involved in human behavior, (2) an awareness of the major problems and issues in the discipline of social psychology, and (3) the capacity to interpret research findings. 

Second, this class seeks to foster respect for human diversity, particularly with regard to matters of gender, race and ethnicity.  Through class lectures, films, papers, and exams, there will be a focus on the nature of human diversity and attitudes toward diversity.  Furthermore, there will be a comparative treatment of both (a) multiple cultures within the United States and (b) gender. 

A major goal of this class is to enable students to (1) understand the forces that create group differences in patterns of social behavior, (2) understand and tolerate the behavior of other people, particularly that of members of the diverse array of groups and social categories to which they do not belong, (3) recognize the limits in generalizing psychological research to all cultural/gender/ethnic/age groups, and (4) understand the dynamics of intergroup relationships, conflict, and cooperation. 

Third, this course allows students many opportunities to develop their writing skills through the completion of multiple papers as well as the essay portions of examinations.  The ability to effectively communicate is an important skill and students will receive feedback from the professor to facilitate this process. 

Fourth, this class emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills.  This includes (1) the ability to explain human behavior (i.e., to identify and use existing knowledge and concepts to identify the causes of the behavior which has been described as well as to critically evaluate the evidence and arguments which have been used to support this analysis), (2) the application of existing facts, concepts, or principles to understand some new behavior or problem, and (3) the acquisition of a critical attitude toward all generalizations, and an ability to evaluate them on the basis of the evidence upon which they claim to be based as well as the development of intelligent skepticism about unfounded "truths" presented in the mass media.  To accomplish this goal, this course emphasizes the understanding and interpretation of research findings and an ability to evaluate their usefulness. 

Finally, although attendance will not be taken, you are expected to be present at all scheduled class meetings. Lectures will consist of a review of particularly complex segments and an expansion upon themes introduced in the textbook and supplemental readings in an attempt to broaden their theoretical and social relevance. In addition, films and demonstrations will be presented which are not covered in the text.